Cozumel Pink Conch

Pink Conch Harvesting Ban Could be Lifted in May

State Officials to rule soon on lifting a 10 year ban early …

“Conch Laying Eggcase” Photo Courtesy of Marc Volkman

According to some sources, the ban on harvesting Pink Conch (Lobatus Gigas) could end on May 1st after an official evaluation by Secretariat of Agriculture, Livestock, Rural Development, Fisheries and Food (Sagarpa) is issued. The ban went into effect on January 30, 2009, and was supposed to last a duration of 10 years.

Back in October of last year, four fishing cooperatives in the state of Quintana Roo requested a feasibility study as to whether conch can be harvested in a sustainable manner, and thusly be regulated.

Due to it’s culinary popularity, overfishing and sand extraction, the species was in serious danger of extinction.

While several island restaurants continue to serve conch, it’s important to note, that Belizean conch is imported into Quintana Roo, which means that as long as the conch came from Belize – the embargo isn’t broken. If you’re insistent on eating conch, please check and make sure that it was, in fact, purchased from Belize, and not poached from the area, at least until the situation has been properly evaluated.

If you happen to see poachers, or individuals removing other forms of protected species contact the Marine Park authorities.